Docly practical guide
PDF Encryption and Secure Sharing Guide
Password protection makes it harder for the wrong recipient to open a file, but it is only one part of secure sharing. Combine a strong password, a separate communication channel and permanent redaction where needed.
Add a password to a PDF
Add the file to PDF Encrypt and choose a long, hard-to-guess password. Avoid names, birth dates and document numbers that someone could discover.
Test the password after downloading the encrypted output. Instead of placing both file and password in one email, send the password by phone or another messaging channel.
Encryption versus redaction
Encryption restricts access; an authorised recipient with the password can see everything. Redaction permanently removes selected information such as an ID number or amount from both the visible page and underlying content.
Sharing checklist
Confirm the recipient address, correct document version and embedded metadata. Communicate the password safely and remove shares that are no longer needed.
Quick checklist
- ✓Use a different strong password for each document.
- ✓Send the password through a separate channel.
- ✓Use permanent redaction instead of drawing a black box.
Tools in this guide
Frequently asked questions
Can I open a PDF if I forgot its password?
Docly requires the existing password and does not crack forgotten passwords.
Does a black box delete hidden text?
Not necessarily. Underlying text may remain selectable, so use permanent redaction.